Nikki Haley shared on Wednesday that she had already conveyed to President-elect Trump her lack of interest in joining his administration again, prior to his public statement over the weekend saying she would not be offered a position.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated, “I will not be inviting former Ambassador Nikki Haley, or former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, to join the Trump Administration, which is currently in formation,” expressing appreciation for their prior service and concluding with his slogan, “MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”
Speaking on her SiriusXM show, “Nikki Haley Live,” Haley dismissed the statement, emphasizing that her decision not to pursue a Cabinet role had been clear to Trump. She mentioned her family’s reaction, noting that her husband and son were disheartened by the post and questioned why she didn’t address it publicly. Instead, she chose to wish Trump well in his new administration.
Trump announces Nikki Haley and Mike Pompeo won’t join his administration
On her show, Haley acknowledged her awareness of the political maneuvering, adding, “I don’t need to engage in that game.” She highlighted a broader perspective, stating that it’s essential to focus on moving forward. She continued by urging Americans to support Trump’s efforts, hoping for the sake of future generations that his term proceeds successfully.
Haley also indicated that the post was consistent with Trump’s personality, remarking, “Do I take it personally? No. That’s who he is,” while adding that she remains content with her own choices. She acknowledged his tendency toward shallow gestures but emphasized that she does not feel the need to respond similarly.
Having served in Trump’s initial administration, Haley later competed against him in the contentious 2024 GOP primary, where she endorsed him after exiting the race. She supported Trump’s candidacy without retracting prior critiques, maintaining that “Trump is clearly the better choice.”
During her show, Haley recalled instances when she had communicated her lack of interest in a White House role to Trump’s circle. She described a visit from Steve Witkoff, a Trump confidant, to her home in South Carolina, where he sought a “truce” between her and Trump. Haley assured Witkoff there was no conflict, affirming her support for Trump and reiterating she had no requests.
Another conversation took place weeks prior, when Trump’s transition co-chair, Howard Lutnick, asked her opinion on possible Cabinet members. Haley said she offered a few suggestions without making requests for herself, encouraging Trump to appoint individuals who would be candid with him. She proposed a potential Commerce secretary and recommended that the U.N. ambassador role be elevated to Cabinet status.
